How to Disable YouTube's AI Upscaling / Super Resolution (in 30seconds)

Stopping Unwanted AI Upscaling on YouTube

YouTube has introduced a feature known as AI Super Resolution, designed to automatically enhance the quality of uploaded videos through AI-driven upscaling. While this is intended to improve the viewing experience, some Creators may find that these automatic adjustments are undesirable or interfere with the original look and feel of their content.

Because this feature is enabled by default for accounts, those who prefer to maintain total control over their video quality must manually opt out through the backend settings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling Super Resolution

Disabling this feature is a quick process that can be handled directly within your account settings. Follow these steps to ensure your uploads are not automatically upscaled:

1. Access Your Settings: Log into YouTube Studio and navigate to the bottom-left corner of the dashboard. Click on the Settings icon.
2. Navigate to Channel Settings: Once the settings pop-up window appears, select the Channel tab from the left-hand sidebar.
3. Enter Advanced Settings: Within the Channel menu, click on the Advanced settings tab.
4. Locate Quality Enhancements: Scroll down through the advanced options until you find the section specifically labeled Video quality enhancement.

Finalizing the Change

In the Video quality enhancement section, you will see a toggle switch for the AI upscaling feature. As mentioned, this is typically switched “on” by default.

To disable it, simply toggle the switch to the “off” position. Before closing the window, it is critical to click Save in the bottom-right corner of the pop-up. If you exit the menu without saving, the AI Super Resolution will remain active on your account.

Why Disable AI Upscaling?

For many Creators, the goal is to have their audience see the video exactly as it was exported from their editing software. Automatic upscaling can sometimes produce visual artifacts or a “processed” look that doesn’t align with the original artistic intent.

By turning off YouTube’s new AI Super Resolution, you ensure that your videos are safe from unwanted modifications and that the visual integrity of your original upload is preserved.

Original transcript

Transcript

Here’s how to disable YouTube’s new AI Super Resolution for your videos. Go to YouTube Studio and click Settings in the bottom-left corner. In the pop-up, go to the Channel tab, then click Advanced settings. Scroll down until you find the new Video quality enhancement section. By default, it is enabled. Toggle the switch off and make sure to hit Save in the bottom-right corner. That’s it: your videos are now safe from unwanted upscaling. Subscribe for more YouTube tips.

Confused about disabling AI Super Resolution on YouTube? Our YouTube Tips & Tricks in English offers detailed guides and tips to help you navigate YouTube's settings effortlessly, or contact our expert below.